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When you’re getting close to the end of your high school career, your future and life goals can feel uncertain. If you are looking for reasons to put in the extra effort to graduate from high school instead of dropping out or getting a GED certificate, some strong facts back up the decision to finish high school. Although the final decision is up to you, you can start your future off strong by using your high school diploma as your foundation.

Getting a Job

Having a high school diploma can increase your chances of getting a job. Individuals without a diploma may find it hard to compete in the job market with other educated applicants. In fact, the National Dropout Prevention Center states that high school dropouts are four times more likely to be unemployed than a college graduate.

Better Income

With each level of completed education, an individual’s income usually goes up. A full-time, full-year worker without a high school diploma makes on average $22,860 and a high school graduate makes approximately $29,950, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics. If the person furthers his education, his wages will continue to increase. Some college will increase the yearly income to about $31,990, an associate degree holder will make around $37,030 and a bachelor’s degree holder will make approximately $44,970 a year.

No Need for Public Assistance

If you want to stay off public assistance, finish high school with your diploma. Your chances of needing public assistance increases if you are a high school dropout, according to the Center for Public Education. This puts a strain on other taxpayers and the economy.

Diploma Vs. GED Certificate

Some individuals decide to get a GED certificate instead of finishing high school. If you are weighing your options, consider statistics before you make your final decision. GED recipients are less likely to continue their education than high school graduates, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The yearly earning of a high school graduate is also higher than a GED certificate holder.